If you’re from or live in Dennison, Ohio, then you probably know that it has quite a few awesome things for being such a small town. Going all the way back to 1865, more than 150 years later it still holds much of its history and even gets thousands of tourists per year.
Here’s why we think Dennison is perhaps the most underrated village in Ohio.
- The Depot
Wikimedia / Bwsmith84 In 2011, the Depot officially became a national landmark…. and rightfully so. During World War II, more than 4,000 volunteers helped take care of over 1.3 million soldiers traveling through the area. The museum is definitely worth a visit, even for locals who have passed by it every day for years.
- Pangrazio’s Pizza
Pangrazio’s Facebook An icon of the area, Pangrazio’s Pizza is simply the best. Not only is a favorite of those in Dennison (and Uhrichsville!) but those who left the area always have a craving for it when they return.
- The Old School Downtown
Google Maps Not many towns in America have retained the old school feel like Dennison. Walking through the area pictured is particularly historic.
- Railroad Festival
Dennison Railroad Festival Web site Though some have said it’s gone downhill in recent years, it’s been a tradition for many years to attend. Rides, exhibits, and other activities always bring this area to life. This year, the festival will take place June 8th-11th.
- The Incredible History
Dennison Depot Have I mentioned Dennison’s impressive history enough yet? So many don’t know about Dennison’s origin going all the way back to 1865. Thousands moved to the area to work in the railyards once the station was built in 1873. During World War 1, the Red Cross operated a canteen from a box car to assist and feed troops traveling through the area. It wasn’t until World War II that it was nicknamed “Dreamsville.”
- Berni’s
Berni’s web site Much like Pangrazio’s, Berni’s remains a classic in the area. Joe Bernie opened what eventually became the gourmet deli we all love in 1940. If you went to school in Dennison, particularly during Junior High, you will remember walking down there and perhaps even the penny candy. In 2007, Joe’s son and wife renovated the Deli and re-opened it.
- McCluskey Park
Google Maps It’s nearly impossible not to have some memories at McCluskey Park. Whether at the Dennison pool, the bike ramps, the track, or the basketball court, everyone in the area has memories of this park.
There are many other reasons why Dennison is not only still underrated today but holds a special place in all of our hearts. Whether it’s places that are now gone like Older Brothers and Quick Check or new places like The Yard, Dennison is much more than just a small town.
Wikimedia / Bwsmith84
In 2011, the Depot officially became a national landmark…. and rightfully so. During World War II, more than 4,000 volunteers helped take care of over 1.3 million soldiers traveling through the area. The museum is definitely worth a visit, even for locals who have passed by it every day for years.
Pangrazio’s Facebook
An icon of the area, Pangrazio’s Pizza is simply the best. Not only is a favorite of those in Dennison (and Uhrichsville!) but those who left the area always have a craving for it when they return.
Google Maps
Not many towns in America have retained the old school feel like Dennison. Walking through the area pictured is particularly historic.
Dennison Railroad Festival Web site
Though some have said it’s gone downhill in recent years, it’s been a tradition for many years to attend. Rides, exhibits, and other activities always bring this area to life. This year, the festival will take place June 8th-11th.
Dennison Depot
Have I mentioned Dennison’s impressive history enough yet? So many don’t know about Dennison’s origin going all the way back to 1865. Thousands moved to the area to work in the railyards once the station was built in 1873. During World War 1, the Red Cross operated a canteen from a box car to assist and feed troops traveling through the area. It wasn’t until World War II that it was nicknamed “Dreamsville.”
Berni’s web site
Much like Pangrazio’s, Berni’s remains a classic in the area. Joe Bernie opened what eventually became the gourmet deli we all love in 1940. If you went to school in Dennison, particularly during Junior High, you will remember walking down there and perhaps even the penny candy. In 2007, Joe’s son and wife renovated the Deli and re-opened it.
It’s nearly impossible not to have some memories at McCluskey Park. Whether at the Dennison pool, the bike ramps, the track, or the basketball court, everyone in the area has memories of this park.
Some other things you might not know about Dennison:
– It was named after governor William Dennison in 1873 when it incorporated.
– There are approximately 2,700 residents of the Village.
– In the 80s, Dennison elected Greg DiDonato as a member of council while he was still a high school student and he ultimately went on to server as Ohio State Representative, Ohio State Senator and minority leader of the Ohio Senate.
– The last passenger train was in 1968 and the last freight train stop in Dennison was 1982.
– It is exactly the half way point between Columbus and Pittsburgh – 100 miles from each.
What else do you remember or know about Dennison? Feel free to share in the comments!
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